There's great excitement in Laclede County this fall.  Not only are the Yellow Jackets loaded with talent and ready to make a run at the Ozark Conference title, they also have brand new turf on their stadium field.

HEAD COACH - Will Christian, 8th season

2011 RECORD - 7-4, lost to Lee's Summit West in class 5 quarterfinals

RETURNING STARTERS - 8 total

PLAYERS TO WATCH - Brock West (Sr. RB), Hayden Brackett (Sr. QB), Tyler Couch (Sr. DL)

The Jackets fought injuries much of last season, but as it turns out that will actually help them this fall.  18 seniors return, several of which have extensive playing experience.

"We're excited," said head coach Will Christian.  "Our expectations are high as we feel they are every year, but certainly it's no easy road."

Among the 8 total returning starters is a slew of talented skill players, including senior quarterback Hayden Brackett, who is now fully healthy after missing 2 and a half games last year with a concussion.  Brackett is a big strong armed QB who also had some good mobility.

"Our expectations are high for him as a senior.  We feel like he's matured and he's really ready to take the reigns of our offense."

Behind him is senior running back Brock West.  West rushed for over 1,500 yards last season despite being the backup until week 4.

"He's not huge, but is extremely explosive and does a great job reading blocks."

The Jackets are ready to make a run in the Ozark Conference this season, and of course will do it with some fresh new turf on their field, entirely privately funded.

"We're so appreciative of our community support.  It's just so awesome that they believe in our program and our kids and our school district that much, because it will be used for more than just football."

The Jackets open at Rolla August 24th before hosting Waynesville in the home opener August 31st.  For the first time ever, Lebanon will play every team in the Ozark Conference.